The four Knockout-Round survivors host the first legs of the conference semifinals to be played as a Sunday quadruple header. Only Seattle prevailed in a low-scoring game (1-0) while the other three teams scored at least three goals.

Buoyed by moves of all three national partners to feature broadcasts more prominently on their various networks, MLS television viewing averages increased for all three partners, ranging from 11 percent to 20 percent, though they all remain modest in the comparison to those of other major U.S. sports leagues and the soccer leagues the most popular with U.S. audiences.

The plight of defending champion Portland has been a running saga all season yet its foe in the season finale, Vancouver, has battled through its own issues and has no shot at a playoff spot heading into the game Sunday at B.C. Place.

Players on big salaries often bring along big egos as well. Montreal owner Joey Saputo has forgiven Didier Drogba, who refused to be a sub last weekend against Toronto, and has decided not to suspend him.

The USA's 2-0 win in a friendly over Cuba on Friday marked its first return to the island since September of 2008, when the USA beat the Cubans, 1-0, in a semifinal round qualifying game for the 2010 World Cup.

On and off the field, fast starts are normal for Paul Arriola. He scored a goal in his first game for Club Tijuana in 2013 in an exhibition against Club America. Two weeks later, in his first Liga MX game, he registered an assist. His first U.S. callup last spring resulted in a goal against Puerto Rico, and last month he marked his first competitive cap by scoring against Trinidad & Tobago.

Strong performances by several players in friendlies against Cuba and New Zealand could create a logjam in the U.S, central midfield heading into the Hexagonal, which starts next month with a USA-Mexico showdown in Columbus.

Last season, 11 of 20 Premier League clubs changed managers, including major stars such as Louis Van Gaal and Jose Mourinho. Stepping into this cauldron is former USA head coach Bob Bradley, hired by Swansea City just seven games into the current season.